Key Mobile Search Findings

Michael Phillips

Posted on 5.08.2007

According to iCrossing's "How America Searches: Mobile" report, just 30% of mobile users search the Internet with their mobile devices. But they are a dedicated group. Of those 30%, half go online several times a week. And of those surfing with their phones, a whopping 75% were not willing to navigate deeper than a second page of results. So, it appears that mobile-accessible sites will rely heavily on search engine results pages (SERPs) and optimal placement within search results.

Some other findings:

Mobile phone searchers overwhelmingly prefer major search engines like Google and Yahoo! to their carriers' options.

Top mobile search categories included maps and directions, weather and local information (a good reason for local businesses to optimize their websites, take advantage of local search services and provide a mobile version of their existing site.)

84% of mobile searchers expected to see dedicated mobile versions of the sites they visit frequently.

The key for those businesses interested in taking advantage of mobile searchers is simplicity, search results and rendering. As more mobile phones and devices become capable of Interenet browsing, and data packages become more widely purchased, more businesses are going to realize the importance of an optimal, dedicated mobile site.

These findings are not surprising. Mobile searches seek speed and simplicity - all factors that a mobile-optimized site should provide. What's more, SEO looks to be paramount to mobile success. More likely than not, mobile Internet surfers are operating on a limited amount of time - during a morning train commute for example. Your mobile website will need to be found quickly, load quickly and operate without unnecessary delays.